Non Profit Organisations have raised issues of concern in the President address to the nation. It his own reaction Country Director, ActionAid Nigeria, AAN, Andrew Mamedu, said, “President Tinubu’s recent speech, while lengthy and comprehensive in detailing his administration’s achievements and economic reforms, fell short of directly addressing the core demands of the protesters. Also NADECO said that critical issues are missing in the President’s speech. Mamedu said “The protesters, who have taken to the streets in response to issues like soaring hunger, high cost of living, excessive cost of governance, insecurity, and the removal of the fuel subsidy, anticipated a more targeted response from the President. However, the speech largely focused on justifying the administration’s economic policies, defending its record, and highlighting ongoing infrastructure projects rather than offering specific and actionable solutions to the protesters’ concerns. For instance, while the President emphasised the removal of fuel subsidies and economic reforms, he did not provide immediate or detailed plans to mitigate the resultant rise in living costs or to support the most vulnerable populations.
“Additionally, there was minimal discussion on the need to address insecurity, which remains a significant issue for many Nigerians. The absence of a clear, actionable roadmap to address these specific demands undermines the perceived sincerity and effectiveness of the administration’s response. President Tinubu’s recent speech highlighted several positive developments, including commitments to expanding infrastructure projects, economic recovery, and youth empowerment. Noteworthy measures include the removal of tariffs and import duties on key agricultural products for an initial six-month period, the allocation of funds for housing and education, and updates on the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Initiative. These actions reflect a willingness to address long-term structural challenges in Nigeria. However, the speech fell short in addressing several core demands of the protesters. Issues such as reducing hunger, managing the high cost of governance, improving security, and ensuring equitable distribution of scarce resources were not adequately tackled. Instead, the President’s address disproportionately focused on condemning the violence and vandalism associated with the protests, rather than engaging constructively with the protesters’ grievances.
“While the President’s claims of significant strides in economic management and infrastructure development may be valid, they do not directly address the immediate concerns raised by the protesters. The speech highlighted increased government revenue and infrastructure projects but lacked detail on how these achievements will provide immediate relief for the high cost of living or improve security. The emphasis on the negative aspects of the protests overshadowed the specific demands articulated by the demonstrators. The condemnation of violence is understandable, but the responsibility for these actions was placed primarily on the protesters, with minimal acknowledgment of the role of state and security forces. Furthermore, the defence of past decisions, such as the removal of fuel subsidies, without offering concrete measures to mitigate their impact, could be perceived as dismissive of the protesters’ immediate needs. The call for dialogue, though essential, may appear insufficiently proactive given the severity of the situation on the ground.
“The speech also lacked a clear strategy for addressing critical economic issues such as inflation and the depreciation of the Naira. Although the increase in government revenues and efforts to close financial loopholes were mentioned, there was no detailed discussion on how these resources would alleviate economic pressures on ordinary citizens. The absence of specific measures to improve exchange rates and tackle inflation leaves many questions unanswered about the government’s approach to stabilising the economy. Overall, while the President’s speech contained some positive elements, it failed to directly address the protesters’ core demands and lacked a clear strategy for resolving pressing economic and social issues faced by Nigerians. President Tinubu’s speech came with high expectations from the public, who were keenly anticipating a direct and substantive response to the ongoing protests. Many hoped for the President to acknowledge the protesters’ specific demands, including addressing the urgent issues of soaring living costs, insecurity, and economic challenges.
“There was a strong desire for concrete and immediate measures to mitigate the impact of recent economic reforms. This included financial support or targeted subsidies to aid those most affected by the removal of fuel subsidies and other economic adjustments. Additionally, there was a call for meaningful engagement with protest leaders, inviting them for dialogue to address their concerns directly and work towards a resolution. An empathetic approach that recognised and responded to the public’s frustrations was also highly anticipated. In light of his call for an end to the protests, President Tinubu needs to take a more focused approach. It is crucial for him to directly address the core issues that have driven the protests, such as tackling hunger, reducing the cost of governance, and improving security. Clear, actionable plans are needed to address these challenges and should be communicated in detail to show that the administration is responding to the protesters’ demands. Engagement with protest leaders is another critical step. Establishing formal channels for dialogue would allow for a constructive discussion on the concerns raised by the demonstrators. This engagement should be genuine, aiming to understand and address the specific issues highlighted by the protests.
“Additionally, there must be a clear explanation of how increased government revenue will be used. Transparency in how resources are allocated will help rebuild public trust and ensure that the financial measures are effectively addressing the needs of the population. Furthermore, the President should outline a comprehensive strategy for managing economic challenges, particularly inflation and the stabilisation of the Naira. Addressing these economic issues is essential for providing relief to ordinary citizens and ensuring long-term economic stability. By focusing on these areas, President Tinubu can work towards de-escalating the current tensions, demonstrating a responsiveness to the people’s concerns, and fostering a more constructive path forward for the nation.”
The Executive Director, Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre, CISLAC, Awual Rafsanjani, applauded President Bola Tinubu for his address, in which he urged protesters and organisers to suspend further protests and embrace dialogue. Rafsanjani acknowledged the President’s recognition of the grievances driving these protests and his commitment to listening to and addressing Nigerian citizens’ concerns. He said: “CISLAC stands firmly with the demands for justice and reform for the administrative justice system and improved governance as it will ensure a just and prosperous nation where peace, freedom, and meaningful livelihoods are enjoyed under a transparent and accountable government. President Tinubu and his appointees must also stop concerted efforts to link the protests and grievances of Nigerians to politics. Doing so, is clearly an attempt to divert attention from the reality of deep poverty plaguing millions of Nigerians right now. Rather the government should focus on improving the economy inclusively. The organisation appreciates President Tinubu’s unequivocal stance against ethnic division and threats, underscoring their incompatibility with Nigeria’s aspirations.
“CISLAC emphasises the importance of maintaining peace, law, and order while upholding human rights in line with international conventions to which Nigeria is a signatory. The safety and security of all Nigerians are paramount. CISLAC calls on Nigeria’s security operatives to heed the President’s call for respect for human rights, ensuring that peace, law, and order are maintained in accordance with these principles. The President must also give a clear directive to the security agencies not to engage in human rights violations. As a prominent civil society organisation in Nigeria, CISLAC urges all stakeholders to heed the President’s call for dialogue. Open and constructive conversations are essential to addressing the underlying causes of unrest and finding sustainable solutions. CISLAC remains committed to supporting these efforts and contributing to the realisation of a peaceful, democratic, and prosperous Nigeria.”
The Chairman, National Democratic Coalition, NADECO, USA, and President of the Ijaw Diaspora, Prof Mondy Gold, said the President’s speech, rather than heralding a transformative vision, seemed mired in complacency and a lack of foresight, appearing content with the status quo at the expense of the nation’s youth and future generations. Prof Gold said: “The President’s words failed to address the pressing issues that grip our nation, such as insecurity and unemployment. These critical issues, which are central to the well-being of our people, were notably absent, leaving a palpable void where leadership and reassurance should have been.” The absence of a clear strategy to tackle these fundamental concerns has cast doubt on the administration’s priorities and direction. In these uncertain times, it is the fervent hope of the Nigerian Diaspora that our leadership will recognise the urgency of the moment and forge a path that prioritises the welfare and prosperity of all Nigerians.”
Highlighting additional concerns, he pointed out that the President’s speech failed to engage with other deep-rooted issues impeding Nigeria’s progress. These include the lingering effects of colonialism, the intricacies of social diversity, pervasive corruption, the tumultuous political landscape, workforce deficiencies, management inefficiencies, policies detrimental to peace and development, low savings rates, and the scarcity of foreign investment. “Confronted with these enduring challenges, we urge Nigerians to stand firm in their beliefs. Let our collective voice rise as a clarion call, demanding transparency and better governance throughout Nigeria.” Despite past pledges that have evaporated, leaving shadows of scepticism, he (Gold) called for renewed determination in the quest for significant reforms. He also championed measures that will fundamentally transform the nation, such as prohibiting the use of personal generators by all public officials, slashing the remuneration of legislators by a minimum of 60 per cent, and promptly redefining the functions of religious entities while streamlining federal ministries.
“These are not mere recommendations but pivotal steps toward the rejuvenation of our nation,” he asserted. Furthermore, Prof Gold stressed that the immediate restructuring of Nigeria is not merely a wish but a prerequisite for lasting peace and prosperity. “We cannot afford to linger in stagnation; the moment for decisive change is upon us”, he said.
